Cambridge City Council meeting - March 31, 2025 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Federal update. (CM25#67)
2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-53, regarding assisting companies, institutions, and other organizations in adopting truck safety requirements. (CM25#68) [text of report]
3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-66 regarding an automated parking enforcement draft home rule petition. (CM25#69) [text of report]
4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-02, which requested that the City Manager ensure adherence to the existing prevailing wage ordinance, maintenance of consistent wage rates, provision of comprehensive employer-paid benefits, and development of a clear local employment strategy in relation to the construction of a new substation and the installation of duct banks. (CM25#70) [text of report]
5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-68 regarding Garden Street two-way traffic alternatives. (CM25#71) [text of report]
6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Floodplain Zoning Amendments. (CM25#72) [text of report]
7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a memo regarding 84 and 96 Bishop Allen RFI submission responses and next steps. (CM25#73) [text of report]
8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-17 which requested that the City Manager be and hereby is requested to appoint the members of a working committee tasked with integrating the objectives of both the Task Force to Examine the Status and Wellbeing of the City’s African American/Black Population and the Commission on the Status of Black Men and Boys into a unified, actionable framework. (CM25#74) [text of report]
9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on Harvard PILOT negotiations. (CM25#75) [text of report]
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Department of Public Works to work together with the Chair of the Health and Environment Committee to make appropriate changes to the draft of the Zero Waste Master Plan 2.0 and forward a final draft to the full City Council for approval as the City’s policy document on zero waste. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Wilson (PO25#41)
2. Appointment of Paula M. Crane as Interim City Clerk effective June 1, 2025. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern (PO25#42)
3. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to prioritize Cambridge Street and Northern Massachusetts Avenue first and to introduce the necessary zoning language and to continue working on Central Square as soon as practicable. Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (PO25#43)
4. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Cambridge Police Department, and Human Rights Commission, and local immigrant rights and immigrant-serving organizations to develop and implement policies and protocols to prevent illegal detainment, hold Know Your Rights trainings, and ensure that the City of Cambridge is adequately prepared to respond to and mitigate violations of this nature. Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui (PO25#44)
5. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to do more outreach to residents, businesses, and property owners to communicate the drought status and take all measures to reduce nonessential water use citywide, and provide a report on citywide water usage and water supply. Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Siddiqui (PO25#45)
6. That the Human Services and Veterans Committee hold a meeting to discuss Sex Work and Sex Trafficking. Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui (PO25#46)
CHARTER RIGHT
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to renewal of the Half Crown-Marsh Neighborhood Conservation District. [Charter Right – Azeem, Mar 24, 2025] (CM25#66) [text of report]
2. An application was received from MGM Development Co. requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 74 Hammond Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Charter Right – Nolan, Mar 24, 2025] (AP25#17)
ON THE TABLE
3. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $570,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Police Extraordinary Expenditures account for the procurement of replacement firearms for the Police Department. These funds would support the purchase of replacement firearms for the Department. Police Department firearms are typically replaced on approximately a ten-year cycle. The manufacturer has ceased production of the model currently used and replacements are almost impossible to source. It is important that department personnel are all trained on the same firearm to ensure safety and interoperability. [Tabled – Mar 17, 2025] (CM25#40)
4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $160,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Police Extraordinary Expenditures account for the procurement of a new fully electric accessible transport wagon. This funding will allow the purchase of a fully electric, American Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant transport wagon to replace one of the aging F350s. The new vehicle will ensure the safe and comfortable transport of community members to court, shelters, and other service providers. [Tabled – Mar 17, 2025] (CM25#41)
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk Diane P. LeBlanc, relative to Cambridge Municipal Code 13.08, Water System Regulations and Chapter 13.12, Water Reservoirs. [Passed to 2nd Reading, Mar 24, 2025; Eligible to be Ordained Apr 7, 2025] (ORD25#8) [text of report]
COMMUNICATIONS
1. Andy Zucker, re: Paul Toner.
2. Ann Haycox, re: Our squares and corridors.
3. Annette Benedetto, re: Our squares and corridors-Right on! Why not guarantee that new housing will actually be affordable, Not the luxury ones that are being built now!
4. Arthur Gilman, re: Councilor Toner.
5. Arti Pandey, re: Our squares and corridors.
6. Barry Perlman, re: Councillor Toner.
7. Bart Bussink, re: Keep Paul Toner !!!!.
8. Becki Norris, re: Support letter for 320 Charles Street.
9. Belinda Rathbone, re: Our squares and corridors.
10. Benjamin Flaim, re: Paul Toner.
11. Beth Gamse & Judy Singer, re: Garden Street.
12. Carol Birnbaum, re: Our squares and corridors.
13. Carol Munroe, re: Our squares and corridors.
14. Carol Weinhaus, re: Our squares and corridors.
15. Catalina Arboleda, re: Our squares and corridors.
16. Catherine S. Alexander, re: Our squares and corridors.
17. Christine Tessier, re: Our squares and corridors.
18. Craig Kelley, re: Paul Toner Should Not Resign.
19. Crystal Komm, re: Our squares and corridors.
20. Dan Mazur, re: Our squares and corridors.
21. Dan Sprague, re: Yes to municipal shuttle program.
22. Dan Totten, re: CM#13 (NCDs).
23. Dave Halperin, re: Oppose Half Crown-Marsh renewal as is.
24. David Hattis, re: Half Crown Marsh NCD.
25. David Kudan, re: Our squares and corridors.
26. David Levy, re: Protecting Solar Access While Supporting Affordable Housing.
27. Deborah Valenze, re: Our squares and corridors.
28. Debra Shapiro, re: Our squares and corridors.
29. Dena Feldstein, re: Our squares and corridors.
30. Diane Ballestas, re: Our squares and corridors.
31. Dorothy Gaydosh, re: Our squares and corridors.
32. Duncan MacArthur, re: Paul Toner.
33. Ed Poirier, re: Paul Toner.
34. Elizabeth Gilmore, re: Keep Paul Toner.
35. Elizabeth Van Ranst, re: Neighborhood Conservation Districts.
36. Ethan Frank, re: Half Crown Marsh NCD.
37. Eunice Williams, re: Our squares and corridors.
38. Florence Mountain, re: Paul Toner.
39. Franziska Amacher, re: Our squares and corridors.
40. Helene Bank, re: Our squares and corridors.
41. Heli Meltsner, re: Our squares and corridors.
42. irallen48, re: Our squares and corridors.
43. Irving Allen, re: Paul Toner should remain on council.
44. Jack Silvers, re: in Councillor Toner should not be asked to resign now.
45. Jackson Moore-Otto, re: Comment Against Half Crown Marsh NCD.
46. Jacqueline Brown, re: Our squares and corridors.
47. Jacqueline Olds, re: Our squares and corridors.
48. James Bertram, re: Paul Toner.
49. James Zall, re: Half Crown Marsh NCD (CM#13, 3/24/2025 Council meeting).
50. Jane Murphy, re: City council.
51. Jane Williams, re: Our squares and corridors.
52. Jean Kindleberger, re: Our squares and corridors.
53. Jeff Petrucelly, re: Our squares and corridors.
54. John Hanratty, re: Paul Toner deservers a fair and civil process.
55. John O’Reilly, re: Paul Toner.
56. John Patrick, re: On the Cambridge Brothel Case.
57. John Sitkin, re: Our squares and corridors.
58. John Trever, re: Our squares and corridors.
59. John Whisnant, re: Our squares and corridors - Stop the Trojan Towers.
60. Joseph Antebi, re: Our squares and corridors.
61. Joyce Devlin, re: Our squares and corridors.
62. Judith Bowman, re: Our squares and corridors.
63. Judith Sandler, re: Our squares and corridors.
64. Karen Klein, re: Our squares and corridors.
65. Kathleen Moore, re: Do not approve the proposed renewal of the Half Crown-Marsh NCD.
66. Kathleen Murphy, re: Our squares and corridors.
67. Kathleen Skinner, re: Paul Toner.
68. Kathy Smith, re: Paul Toner.
69. Kellie DeJon, re: Paul Toner.
70. Larry Ward, re: Paul Toner.
71. Lawrence Hartmann, re: Our squares and corridors.
72. Lawrence J. Adkins, re: Our squares and corridors.
73. Leesteffy Jenkins, re: Paul Toner.
74. Lisa Glover, re: Our squares and corridors.
75. lynn Cetrulo, re: Paul Toner.
76. Mal Malme, re: Toner must resign.
77. Manny Pacheco MD and Heather Pacheco AIA, re: Support for Paul Toner.
78. Margaret Compher, re: Our squares and corridors.
79. Margaret Gadon, re: Paul Toner as fit for councilor.
80. Marie Elena Saccoccio, re: Clarification on Brothel Case in Federal Court and District Court.
81. Marie Elena Saccoccio, re: Submission in favor of CM#66.
82. Marilee Meyer, re: One person’s opinion given the situation.
83. Marjoleine Kars, re: Our squares and corridors.
84. Mark Goldberg, re: Paul Toner.
85. Marlene Brown, re: Our squares and corridors.
86. Mary Jane Kornacki, re: On calls for Councillor Toner’s resignation.
87. Mary S. Kennedy, re: Our squares and corridors.
88. Matthew Sutton, re: Keep Paul Toner on the City Council.
89. McKelden Smith, re: Upzoning, historic preservation.
90. Buck Mcnamara, re: Paul Toner must go.
91. Melissa Ulen, re: Please reconsider bike lane changes on Broadway.
92. Michael Rogove, re: 2025-03-23 Meeting - CM25#66 - Crown Marsh NCD.
93. Michal Regunberg, re: Our squares and corridors.
94. Miriam Goldberg, re: Our squares and corridors.
95. Vincent Mili, re: Councilor Paul Toner.
96. Tony Hsiao and Lestra Litchfield, re: Half-Crown Marsh NCD.
97. Title IX Aurelia Advocates, re: Statement on Councillor Paul Toner.
98. Suzanne Hopkins, re: Our squares and corridors.
99. Suzanne Blier, re: NCDs.
100. Susan Strang, re: Our squares and corridors.
101. Susan Goldhor, re: Our squares and corridors.
102. Stuart Gedal, re: Our squares and corridors.
103. Steve Bardige, re: Paul Toner should NOT resign.
104. Shelagh Hadley, re: Our squares and corridors.
105. Sharon Sears, re: Our squares and corridors.
106. Sandra McCallum & Robert McCallum, re: Paul Toner City Councilor.
107. Alex Irving, re: 18 Clinton MC-6545: 6 unit property becoming 2 large single family units.
108. Ayah Al-Zubi, re: Paul Toner.
109. Beth Gamse and Judy Singer, re: In strong support of Councillor Toner.
110. Bob Shane, re: light pole banner program.
111. Carlos Loya, re: Please help Daycare in Cambridge - Elizabeth’s Daycare Huron Street - Case Study and learning for City of Cambridge.
112. Carole Stern, re: Our squares and corridors.
113. Claudia Secundy, re: Paul Toner.
114. Charles Rinaldo and Michele Rinaldo, re: Paul Toner.
115. Denise Talarico, re: Councilor Toner.
116. Diane Reposa, re: Councilor Toner.
117. Fred Fantini, re: Comments re: Paul Toner.
118. Helen Walker, re: Reporting in Cambridge Day.
119. irallen, re: COUNCILLOR Paul Toner should stay on Council.
120. Jason Alves, re: King Open Parking.
121. E. A. and Julie S. Vargas, re: Our squares and corridors.
122. Morgan Nerich, Kaelyn Silva, and Molly Stone-Peterson, re: Founding TIAA Members: Statement on the Status of Councilor Paul F. Toner.
123. Katiti Kironde, re: Paul Toner.
124. Kevin Crane, re: Councillor Paul Toner.
125. Laura McMurry, re: Councillor Toner should not resign.
126. Lawrence Adkins, re: Not to resign.
127. Linda Chicariello, re: Paul Toner.
128. Linda Moussouris, re: What has occurred recently concerning Councilor Paul Toner.
129. Lucy Norris, re: Paul Toner Should Not Resign.
130. Mary Ann Donofrio, re: Support for Paul Toner.
131. Michael Rome, re: Paul Toner.
132. Nancy Ryan, re: Paul Toner.
133. Patrick Magee, re: PO25#38.
134. Paula Van Gelder, re: Toner: The Right to Due Process.
135. Peter Norris, re: Our squares and corridors.
136. Rabbi Yoni Central Square Tenants, re: Strong Support for Eviction Sealing. Right to Counsel to Implement it?
137. Rebecca Sama, re: Plea for Resignation of City Council Member Paul Toner.
138. Robert Skenderian, re: Paul Toner.
139. Sam Allon, re: Spare our city the embarrassment.
140. Sharmil Modi, re: Comment in support of Councillor Paul Toner.
141. Shelley Rieman, re: Paul Toner.
142. Ronald Suleski, re: Please Reconsider.
143. romac106, re: Our squares and corridors.
144. Robert Camacho, re: City-wide up-zoning petition.
145. Rob Carney, re: Council Member Toner Support.
146. Richard Schwartz, re: Our squares and corridors.
147. Quinton Zondervan, re: No more guns for the police!
148. Phyllis Simpkins, re: Our squares and corridors.
149. Paul Silin Levenson, re: Our squares and corridors.
150. Paul Breneman, re: Our squares and corridors.
151. Nike Tirman, re: Our squares and corridors.
152. Nike Tirman, re: KEEP PAUL TONER ON COUNCIL!
153. Ned Melanson, re: Do not renew Half Crown Marsh NCD as-is.
154. Lee Farris, re: Remove Paul Toner’s leadership roles now.
155. Bonnie Bertolaet, re: Letter of support for BioMed Realty and 320 Charles St.
156. Alfred Disidoro, re: Paul Toner.
157. Emily WiejaI, re: support Councillor Toner.
158. Joseph Sultan, re: Support for Councilor Paul Toner.
159. Leah Tynan, re: Resident Support of Garden St One Way Format.
160. Michael Keane, re: Paul Toner support.
161. Stephen Helfer, re: support Councillor Toner.
162. Katherine M, re: OUR SQUARES and CORRIDORS.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Donna J. Barry. Vice Mayor McGovern
2. 20th anniversary of the Andrea Harvey Memorial Fund. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
3. Resolution on the passing of Joseph Nichols, Sr. Mayor Simmons
4. Resolution on the death of Carol Elizabeth Moses. Councillor Zusy
5. Congratulations to Paula Gates on her retirement from the Water Department. Councillor Toner
6. Congratulations to Meredith Woods on her retirement from the Cambridge Public Library. Councillor Toner
7. Congratulations to Brian McCoy on his retirement from the Cambridge Water Department. Councillor Toner
8. Congratulations to James Rita on his retirement from the Cambridge Water Department. Councillor Toner
9. Resolution Congratulating Local Author Ora Grodsky. Councillor Wilson
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee and Housing Committee held a joint public hearing on Mar 4, 2025 to discuss zoning priorities focusing on major squares and corridors. The Committee voted favorably to recommend that the City Manager be requested to direct the Community Development Department to prioritize Cambridge Street and Northern Massachusetts Avenue first and to introduce the necessary zoning language and to continue working on Central Square as soon as practicable. See PO25#43. [text of report]
Present: Azeem, McGovern, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson, Nolan, Zusy
Absent: Siddiqui
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding legislative activity. (COF25#56)
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Mar 31
10:00am The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss proposed amendments to the Cambridge Municipal Code Chapter 13.08, Water System Regulations and Chapter 13.12, Water Reservoirs, to include revised drought regulations and procedures.
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, Apr 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Thurs, Apr 10
3:00pm The Human Services and Veterans Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss services being provided to the unhoused community and an update on the opioid settlement funds.
Mon, Apr 14
2:00pm The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public hearing to review and discuss regulations to encourage the use of solar energy systems and protect solar access for Registered Solar Energy Systems. (PO25#7)
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Wed, Apr 16
3:00pm The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing to review and discuss capital and large-scale programs and projects currently underway and in the funding plan, and potential future programming and projects that would need to be planned and incorporated into medium- and long-term capital and operating budgets.
Thurs, Apr 17
3:00pm The Human Services and Veterans Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss the feasibility of a successor program to Rise Up.
Mon, Apr 28
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, May 5
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Thurs, May 8
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 City budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
Mon, May 12
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Tues, May 13
6:00pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 School Department budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
Wed, May 14
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 City budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
Thurs, May 15
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 City and School budgets covering the fiscal period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 (if necessary).
Mon, May 19
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, June 2
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, June 9
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, June 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, June 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, June 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Mar 31, 2025
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
COUNCILLOR WILSON
WHEREAS: The Health and Environment Committee met on March 25, 2025 and voted favorably that the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Department of Public Works to work together with the Chair of the Health and Environment Committee based on the comments from today’s meeting and any public input including the Climate Committee to make appropriate changes to the draft of the Zero Waste Master Plan 2.0 and forward a final draft to the full City Council for approval as the city’s policy document on zero waste; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Department of Public Works to work together with the Chair of the Health and Environment Committee based on the comments from today’s meeting and any public input including the Climate Committee to make appropriate changes to the draft of the Zero Waste Master Plan 2.0 and forward a final draft to the full City Council for approval as the City’s policy document on zero waste.
O-2 Mar 31, 2025
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR TONER
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
ORDERED: That Deputy City Clerk Paula M. Crane be appointed as Interim City Clerk for a term of no less than three months, and no more than six months, effective June 1, 2025.
O-3 Mar 31, 2025
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
WHEREAS: A joint public hearing of the Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee and Housing Committee met on March 4, 2025 and voted favorably to recommend that the City Manager be requested to direct the Community Development Department to prioritize Cambridge Street and Northern Massachusetts Avenue first and to introduce the necessary zoning language and to continue working on Central Square as soon as practicable; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to prioritize Cambridge Street and Northern Massachusetts Avenue first and to introduce the necessary zoning language and to continue working on Central Square as soon as practicable.
O-4 Mar 31, 2025
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: On March 25, 2025, Tufts PhD student Rumeysa Ozturk was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); and
WHEREAS: Surveillance footage suggests that Ms. Ozturk’s detention may have been unlawful, as the detaining officers failed to identify themselves, remove their masks, or inform her of her Miranda rights; and
WHEREAS: On March 25, 2025, a federal district court judge issued an order prohibiting Ms. Ozturk from being transferred out of Massachusetts without prior written notice from the government; and
WHEREAS: As of March 26, 2025, Ms. Ozturk was confirmed to be in ICE custody through the online detainee locator system; and
WHEREAS: Ms. Ozturk’s attorney reported that a U.S. senator had informed her of Ms. Ozturk’s transfer to Louisiana, in apparent violation of the judge’s order and her due process rights; and
WHEREAS: Such actions of the federal government pose serious public safety risks and undermine community trust, as individuals detained by unidentified officials may be unable to distinguish between lawful detentions and potential kidnappings; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Cambridge Police Department, and Human Rights Commission, and local immigrant rights and immigrant-serving organizations to develop and implement policies and protocols to prevent illegal detainment, hold Know Your Rights trainings, and ensure that the City of Cambridge is adequately prepared to respond to and mitigate violations of this nature.
O-5 Mar 31, 2025
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR ZUSY
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: Cambridge has been in at least a Level 1, Mild Drought status since October 2024 and following several weeks of below-normal precipitation, the watershed of Cambridge along with much of the state was designated as a Level 3, Critical Drought status in February 2025, which, as outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, require detailed monitoring of drought conditions, along with ongoing coordination among state and federal agencies to implement water use restrictions; and
WHEREAS: The U.S. Geological Survey monitors and maintains water storage data for the Cambridge water supply, which is used by the Cambridge Water Department to monitor water levels at the Hobbs Brook Reservoir and Fresh Pond; and
WHEREAS: Last fall, City staff took steps to inform irrigation water users, large institutional water users, and municipal facilities all to conserve water, yet throughout the winter, lower than average precipitation has led to worsening conditions, and so more significant outreach is necessary as temperatures rise this spring and water usage typically rises; and
WHEREAS: Reservoir storage for March 2025 is significantly lower than the median reservoir levels for the last 15 years, and if this trend of below-normal precipitation continues, the City of Cambridge may have to resort to purchasing water from MWRA to supplement or replace the City supply for an extended period of time, as in previous drought years, which is a significant expense; and
WHEREAS: The City Council has asked the city administration for a comprehensive and effective response to drought conditions and to inform the general public, including public communication in all City outlets, including the Daily Update, and should focus particularly on outreach to large water users; and
WHEREAS: Notwithstanding the need to conserve water, street trees, park trees, and trees on private property will need to continue to be maintained through regular irrigation as they provide essential public health and environmental justice benefits and are thus considered an essential use; and
WHEREAS: The City Council wants the City to be prepared in the case of dry conditions continuing and to be prepared for late summer droughts; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments to do more outreach to residents, businesses, and property owners to communicate the drought status and take all measures to reduce nonessential water use citywide, and provide a report on citywide water usage and water supply; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council in a timely manner.
O-6 Mar 31, 2025
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: In November 2023, members of the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the Cambridge Police Department announced that they had shut down and arrested the heads of a commercial brothel network operating in multiple locations across the country, including a residential building in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Exploitation is inherent in illegal prostitution rings, where consent cannot be reliably ascertained; and
WHEREAS: In November 2023, it was reported that “elected officials, government contractors with security clearances, and military officers were among hundreds of men” that made up the brothel’s list of “wealthy, well-connected clientele”; and
WHEREAS: In March 2025, the names of 28 individuals linked to the case as alleged most frequent patrons of the brothel became public after they were issued summonses to appear at show-cause hearings at Cambridge District Court, establishing probable cause and confirming the high-profile nature of the client list; and
WHEREAS: These events raise critical concerns around sex work, sexual exploitation, and consent, which merit discussion, public education, and attention in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: There are a number of community groups and organizations actively addressing these issues in Cambridge and in the Commonwealth including a group of diverse stakeholders across the community convened over the last year by the Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women to develop a comprehensive, multi-sector response to this issue; and
WHEREAS: Proposed state legislation, including “An Act to Prevent Human Trafficking and Improve the Health and Safety of Sex Workers,” co-sponsored by members of Cambridge’s state legislative delegation, aims to tackle these issues; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Human Services and Veterans Committee hold a meeting to discuss sex work and sex trafficking, with a focus on ongoing community efforts to support survivors, prevent exploitation, and improve the safety of sex workers, as well as to examine relevant proposed state legislation.
AWAITING REPORT LIST
24-53. at the City of Cambridge assist companies, institutions, and other organizations in adopting truck safety requirements for their fleets and finding trucking vendors who are able to comply by providing an informational resource and publicizing those that comply.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (O-1) from 9/16/2024
24-64. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a Home Rule Petition to enact legislation which would allow the City of Cambridge to prohibit associations from unreasonably restricting the use of a solar energy system.
(Calendar Item #1) from 11/18/2024
24-66. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a draft home rule petition to authorize the City of Cambridge to implement automated parking enforcement technology; and to continue to work with the City of Boston to collaborate on the home rule process.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui (O-1) from 11/18/2024
24-67. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to review with a robust and inclusive community process the Cambridge Bicycle Plan, most recently updated in 2020, and identify potential improvements and consider next steps for a network of Separated Bicycle Facilities, and Separated Bicycle Facilities on streets across the city in order to facilitate safer travel and ways to coordinate routes with neighboring communities including Arlington, Somerville, Watertown, Belmont, Boston, and others.
Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-1) from 12/2/2024
24-68. The City Manager is requested to work with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and Harvard University to restore Garden Street to two-way automobile traffic while preserving two-way protected bike lanes, preserving as much parking on and/or near Garden Street as possible and identifying potential areas for resident parking on neighboring streets and communicating the changes to the affected neighborhood.
Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Wilson (O-1) from 12/9/2024
25-2. That the City Manager ensure staff work to Adherence to the existing prevailing wage ordinance, Maintenance of consistent wage rates, Provision of comprehensive employer-paid benefits and Development of a clear local employment strategy.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern (O-1) from 1/27/2025
25-3. The City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with a update on the status and timeline for the completion of the Grand Junction Multiuse Path and how implementation between Gore Street and Little Binney could coincide with Phase 2 of the CSO implementation on Cambridge Street.
Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (O-2) from 1/27/2025
25-4. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to develop zoning recommendations, pursuant to M.G.L. c.40A §9B, for regulations to encourage the use of solar energy systems and protect solar access for Registered Solar Energy Systems that have been in existence for one year, per Ordinance Ch. 22.60, specifically on structures over 4 stories.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy (O-5) from 1/27/2025
25-5. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a report on the use of M.G.L. Ch. 40U to determine which local statutes can be enforced by the local-option procedure in order to better collect fines in violation of Cambridge ordinances and provide a recommendation to the City Council for implementation of Ch. 40U procedures.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zusy (O-2) from 2/3/2025
25-6. The City Manager is requested to work with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to investigate safety improvements such as signalization to the intersection of Cardinal Medeiros Avenue, Cambridge Street, and Warren Street, and to implement these changes as soon as possible.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan (O-1) from 2/10/2025
25-8. The City Manager is requested to create a plan with a schedule and milestones to move forward with the creation of a Municipal Broadband Network and present it for consideration by the Council at a Finance Committee meeting in the context of capital projects for coming years.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson (O-3) from 2/10/2025
25-9. The City Manager is requested to confer with the relevant departments about exploring how the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department can advance protection of Cambridge students and other bus riders as authorized by the two new Massachusetts laws.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Toner (O-4) from 2/10/2025
25-16. The City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to coordinate with the MBTA in finding ways in which to strengthen safety measures.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Azeem (O-3) from 3/3/2025
25-11. The City Manager is requested to exert all appropriate influence on EZ Ride and Passio to take immediate and concrete steps to fully resolve tracking deficiencies and improve real-time transit accuracy for riders.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui (O-4) from 3/3/2025
25-12. The City Manager is requested to work with all appropriate Departments to develop language to create an “Affordable Rent Incentive Program” program for Cambridge and to report back to the City Council with option, including the percentage of possible tax abatements.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner (O-5) from 3/3/2025
25-13. The City Manager is requested to commit to prioritizing snow removal from crosswalks and pedestrian islands for the rest of this and future snow seasons and direct appropriate City staff to generate a policy for prioritizing snow removal from crosswalks and pedestrian islands after snow storms.
Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons (O-7) from 3/3/2025
25-15. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to create a plaque to be placed at the entrance of or inside City Hall that demonstrates the values that the Cambridge City Council upholds of the separation of church and state and gender equality.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons (O-13) from 3/3/2025
25-17. The City Manager is requested to appoint the members of a working committee tasked with integrating the objectives of both the Task Force to Examine the Status and Wellbeing of the City’s African American/Black Population and the Commission on the Status of Black Men and Boys into a unified, actionable framework (Report Back in 30 days).
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson (O-1) from 3/17/2025
25-18. The City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City departments to draft language to create an Ordinance to ensure that vacant store fronts and commercial properties keep their properties in safe and clean conditions.
Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson (O-2) from 3/17/2025
25-19. The City Manager provide the Council with a report before May 31, 2025, that includes a summary of all requests for approval of Surveillance Technology Impact Reports received by the city council during the prior year pursuant to Section 2.128.030 or Section 2.128.040 of the Surveillance Ordinance, including whether the City Council approved, disapproved, or required modifications to the Surveillance Technology Impact Reports received, for the Council to review and adopt.
Councillor Toner (O-4) from 3/17/2025
25-20. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department to develop a timeline for the next Incentive Zoning Nexus Study.
Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zusy (O-1) from 3/24/2025
25-21. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Office of the Housing Liaison and all relevant departments to ensure the successful implementation of an outreach and assistance campaign to provide broad and equitable access to eviction record sealing for eligible Cambridge tenants.
Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson (O-2) from 3/24/2025
25-22. That the City Manager is requested to work with the School Department, the Department of Public Works, and other relevant departments to open the publicly owned parking at the King Open/Cambridge Street Upper School Complex for either residential free parking or commercial parking opportunities during “off” hours.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner (O-3) from 3/24/2025
25-23. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and institutional stakeholders currently operating some form of shuttle to explore options for a municipal transit pilot program.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Zusy (O-4) from 3/24/2025